By NIKOLE JAVIER
Another University of the Philippines –Ateneo duel in the UAAP Finals?
Enjoying twice-to-beat advantages over their respective rivals, the Maroons and the Eagles try to arrange what their supporters are wishing for as they go for all-important semis wins Wednesday, Dec. 7, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Though they dropped their last elimination game against the Eagles, the Maroons are still fancied to prevail in their 2 p.m. showdown with the National University Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs dealt the Maroons their first loss in the first round but the defending champions avenged that defeat in the second round, winning the rematch pulling away.
The Eagles, who secured the No. 1 seed by virtue of their superior quotient over the Maroons, are likewise favored against the Adamson Falcons in their 6 p.m. clash.
Momentum is on Ateneo’s side.
Apart winning their last six games, the Eagles appeared to have Adamson’s number after sweeping them in the elims – the latest was seven days ago via a 66-61 decision.
But don’t tell that to the Falcons and the Bulldogs.
Having reached this far, both teams will try to go all the way to the top whatever it takes.
For the Maroons, they have for a formidable frontcourt duo of Carl Tamayo and Malick Diouf and a bevy of dependable role players who can shoot from afar and inside.
The Bulldogs, on the other hand, will bank heavily on their spunk and hustle in the hope of pulling off another upset and force a rubber match.
That will also be the battlecry of the Jerom Lastimosa-led Falcons as they try to end their losing run to the Eagles, who will be spearheaded by Dave Ildefonso, Ange Kouame, BJ Andrade and Kai Ballungay.
